"INSIGHT FROM ABOVE"
Photography by Ofir Ben Tov
The "Insight From Above" collection represents the actualization of a creative vision and ongoing mission, to strengthen the bond between the State of Israel and supportive communities around the globe.
Capitalizing on the perspective and expansive color pallet as seen from above, the artists’ unique imagery conveys the immense and rich beauty of the Holy Land of Israel in no uncertain terms.
The images on display offer exceptional insight on Israel as a country and state, while also expressing the love and respect that man—the artist— feels for his homeland.
- All photographs and images displayed are part of the "INSIGHT FROM ABOVE" collection. Series were taken from footage captured, over the land of Israel, between the years 2003 - 2008.
The Man behind the Lens: Ofir Ben-Tov's biography
Ofir Ben-Tov, 29 years old, currently resides in Tel Aviv. A Major in the IDF Reserve Army. While on active duty, served as Lieutenant Commander of an elite military unit which specializes in aerial photography. He has clocked over 3,000 hours in-flight, performing duties which include acute-photography and observation. Ben-Tov bought his first camera at the age of 14 and has been behind the lens ever since.
A 2nd generation Israeli [Sabar], Ofir’s mixed Yemenite and German origin is a true reflection of the Zionist vision. Ofir’s paternal grandparents arrived to Israel by mule while his maternal grandparents arrived from Germany, before the outbreak of the Holocaust. Though of an uncommon past, Ofir’s grandparents shared in the Zionist dream and desire to settle and cultivate the land of Israel.
This ideology was paramount in Ofir’s upbringing, both in the home and in his extracurricular life; Ofir was both a scout and scout counselor in the "Noar Oved" Youth Movement which instilled in him a respectful curiosity and love for the land of Israel. Walking and exploring the country awakened his passion for his homeland.
In addition to his passion for photography, Ben-Tov’s love for Mathematics led him to further work in the field of education. As a Math & S.A.T instructor, Ben-Tov reinforced the subject skills of at-risk high-school students, equipping them with the knowledge and tools necessary to successfully pass the mandatory national exam.
